P.E.I. to end provincewide fire ban Monday night

Prince Edward Island is lifting its provincewide burn ban.

Prince Edward Island is ending its fire ban Monday night.

The province announced the most recent fire closure order will end at 11:59 p.m. and will not be renewed.

Campfires used for heating and warmth are allowed with the permission of property owners and if allowed by local bylaws, starting Tuesday.

“Forestry officials advised me that the forecasted weather conditions will reduce the risk of forest fires across the Island, however Islanders should still be very cautious when they are considering having a campfire,” said Environment, Energy and Climate Action Minister Gilles Arsenault. “We appreciate everyone who respected our fire closure order and the first responders who remained vigilant in these difficult conditions.”

The province says Islanders should keep these safety tips in mind while having a campfire:

• make sure weather conditions are suitable in the area at the time of the fire
• use a suitable fire structure to contain fire to a small area, such as a fire pit or stone fire break
• have plenty of water, a shovel or other fire suppression tools on hand before starting the fire
• add small amounts of material at a time to help keep the fire small and under control at all times
• fully extinguish any recreational campfires before leaving the fire site

Burning is only allowed after 2 p.m., if conditions allow. Forestry officials are reminding residents to check for restrictions before making any decisions to burn brush, leaves or cut grass.

Officials are also reminding residents to select a safe burn site, continuously monitor the fire and fully extinguish the fire before leaving.

Permits are required for certain categories of outdoor fires, but does not include campfires or category 1 domestic brush burns.

FireSmart principles should continue to be used around homes and communities. The province is encouraging residents to follow these tips this fall:

• remove debris, dry leaves, twigs and branches from around homes because they are flammable and could ignite a forest fire
• make the 10 metres around a house a fire-resistant area, free of anything that could easily ignite
• remove combustible material and debris from under decks and porches. Regularly clean and maintain this area.

For more P.E.I. news, visit our dedicated provincial page.